Anderson University

University officials announced the establishment of the Undergraduate Cancer Research Center at Anderson University during Opening Convocation ceremonies on the campus Wednesday.

Biology professor Dr. Diana Ivankovic was named the first Dr. James A. Henderson Director of the center. Thanks to the generosity of Edgar and Wilma Henderson of Greenville, SC, the Director’s position will be named in memory of their son, who was a graduate of the U.S.C. Medical University of Dentistry and the LSU School of Endodontics. Dr. Henderson was an endodontist in Anderson for a number of years and an active Baptist layman in Anderson.

Anderson University has been involved in undergraduate cancer research for a number of years. Under the direction of Dr. Ivankovic, the program has received several student/faculty research grants from the South Carolina Independent Colleges and University’s Foundation. A number of Dr. Ivankovic’s students, who have joined her in conducting important cancer research as undergraduate students, have enjoyed great success in graduate programs and medical schools. Given the success of the program, Anderson University, through its Board of Trustees, decided to give formal structure to the cancer research activities taking place at the university.

“I am honored to have been named the Dr. James A. Henderson director of the Undergraduate Cancer Research Center at Anderson University,” said Dr. Ivankovic. “This center will offer a unique opportunity for Anderson University to be involved in the latest cancer research and to collaborate with healthcare institutions, so our students and faculty may one day experience how their research improves the treatment of patients with breast cancer and other types of cancer.  As a researcher, professor, and breast cancer survivor, I am thrilled that this center has opened and very excited by all the opportunities it offers.”

Dr. Ivankovic serves on the National Board of the Susan B. Komen Foundation. She was recently awarded the “Pointing the Way” leadership award by The Anderson Independent Mail newspaper for her leadership in the community. She has developed collaborative relationships with the Oncology Research Center, Greenville Hospital Systems, and AnMed Health.

Anderson University is a comprehensive university affiliated with the South Carolina Baptist Convention offering bachelors and masters degrees. Anderson is ranked in the Top Tier (top 25) of colleges and universities in the South, and one of “77 Schools to Watch in America,” by U. S. News & World Report.  Anderson has also been named one of “Americas 100 Best College Buys,” Located in The Upstate region of South Carolina near the foothills of the Appalachians, Anderson University features a rigorous education in a supportive Christian environment.

###